Anyone have information on a quality aftermarket fender? I see the OEM passenger side is $290.00 and the aftermarket fender is around $85. Anyone aware of the differences re: design, materials, etc. I'mm looking at the parts at Hawks.

 

Well, I'l post as to the quality of OEM vs aftermarket in general. First, the OEM part will fit--aftermarket parts often have to be "massaged" to fit correctly. Some more than others.

Second, the quality of the sheetmetal is generally much better on OEM, enough so that GM offers a lifetime rust through warranty if the part is properly prepped and painted. My experience as a counter guy and also working with the body shop at our dealership is that GM body parts (read: sheetmetal) just has fewer headaches than the aftermarket stuff. Now is that worth the extra $200.00 to you?, only you can answer that, and certainly the Aftermarket stuff has gotten better over the years and GM isn't perfect. But I've just had better luck with the factory original. And don't forget to check on one from a yard, often you can get a good deal from them for a used part--good if you're on a budget.

 

Fenders aren't like engines. They don't wear out. There's nothing wrong wtih a nice used GM fender. I'd pay $90 for a used GM fender before I paid $90 for an offshore replacement.

 

Thanks! Hopefully hawks has a nice used piece in stock.

 

why not just find a local yard? By the time you pay for shipping, hawks will be more expensive, plus you won't be able to inspect it before you buy it.

 

I would def use a junk yard GM fender before I ordered a cheap imported one

 

Good idea Jim. Time to go to the local boards to see where the local yards are and to see if anyone has it in stock. I'm in NJ, for anyone that might have a suggestion.

 

If it turns out that you can't find a decent used fender and you decide to buy an aftermarket, give me a PM. I can get you fenders that are better than the normal aftermarket stuff, but given the choice, I'd still rather put a used GM fender on my own car.

 

Thanks Jim. Will do. Seeing pics of your car makes me miss mine.